Bay Leaves
Scientific Name: Laurus nobilis
Native To: The Mediterranean and specifically the Greek Isles.
Basic History: Bay leaves come from an evergreen tree with shiny, glossy leaves. The Greeks used the leaves to braid wreathes that symbolized achievement and capability. The Olympic wreath tradition began with garlands of bay laurel.
Culinary Uses: Bay leaves are part of the traditional bouquet garni, a traditional bundle of herbs tied together to enhance the flavors of soups and stews. Thyme, bay and rosemary are the normal herbs in bouquet garni.
Flavor and Taste: Bay leaves are sweet, spicy and sultry with a peppery taste and a woody, citrus scent.
Nutritional Notes: Bay leaves are used by herbalists to treat digestive disorders, relieve swelling, and to treat dandruff.